5.11.2009
Researchers: UBE3A Gene Mutation Causes Severe Learning Disorder
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The lack of expression of the gene UBE3A on the 15th chromosome manifests itself in the brain through a severe inability to learn, according to UNC and Duke University researchers.
This inactive gene disables neuron communications, so the brain is unable to encode experiences into memory or learned paractice. One of the medical terms for the resulting condition is Angelman Syndrome. Understanding the genetics behind the condition may offer hope for solutions in the future.
Science Release at EurekaAlert.
Labels: angelman, Duke, syndrome, UBE3A, unc
